In order for an appraisal to remain accurate, it must efficiently reflect the current market. Whenever the appraisal is desired for an accurate point of reference, it must be able to show the present state of the market. While there is not an exact expiration date on appraisals, many lenders will only accept an appraisal report that is about 60-90 days old. After that, there are most likely sufficient changes in the market that require an adjustment in the report. If you need a change within this time frame, many appraisers will make adjustment for a small fee.
If an extension is needed on the report, some lenders will allow it with the proper paperwork and documentation. However, in a market that is noticeably declining the time in which the report is valid becomes significantly shorter.
The maximum period of validity for an appraisal is six months, as the market will definitely have changed and it will take more than minor changes on a report to reflect this.
When you find yourself in a profession that requires to poke around the innermost workings of a person’s home, you are bound to come across some unexpected extremities. While you may commonly be faced with a subtle indentation or loose floorboard, many inspectors and appraisers are delighted to find the occasional surprise. As with any job, unforeseen circumstances are often entertaining and break up the daily redundancy. We collected a few pictures taken by home inspectors and appraisers while on the job that surprised them at the time, and are bound to surprise you as well.
An Appraisal License is the same as an Appraisal Certification.
A licensed appraiser is the lowest level of accreditation for a professional appraiser, without requiring supervision. To receive a license in the state of Georgia, one must complete 150 hours of classes, dedicated to basic appraisal skills and procedures. A certified residential and commercial appraiser must complete 210 hours of coursework, on top of the education a licensed appraiser must receive.
A certified home appraiser is able to work on properties of any size, value, or complexity. On the other hand, an appraiser with simply a license can only appraise property less than $1,000,000. There is a clear benefit to being a certified appraiser, and one should always take the time to research their appraiser’s educational background.
Appraiser do the same thing ad home inspectors
Contrary to popular belief, the job of an appraiser compared to that of a home inspector is entirely different. An appraiser surveys the value of the home and offers their opinion accompanied by a report of their findings. A home inspector searches for damages and issues within the home to determine its condition, and essentially inform the client of the goings on beneath their roof.
Appraisers enter situations with a personal agenda.
It is rarely beneficial to the appraiser to enhance or decrease numbers in their appraisal report. They are typically the only unbiased party in the entire equation. It is a normal reaction to initially blame your appraiser for an unexpected value, however, after a minute or so of consideration it should become evident that this is a third party service that receives no reward for a higher or lower appraisal value.
Your home improvements will be reflected monetarily in the appraisal.
Many homeowners expect a higher appraisal value because of their personal additions to the home. This could mean a swing outside, an added-on balcony or a renovated bathroom. Sadly, this is not normally the case. The money put into these special projects is usually not directly reflected on the appraisal value.
Appraisers own the appraisal report.
Unfortunately, once an appraisal report has been completed it is technically in the hands of the client. Whether it be the owner or the lender, they reserve the right to deny anybody else the opportunity to view the report.
They don’t care about any of your input
While appraisers remain trained professionals, this does not mean they are completely versed with your home in its entirety. There is the possibility that they may not be aware of certain market trends, neighborhood sales and home repairs. Appraisers are open to communication with their client, and while it may not always have a direct effect on the outcome it is essentially beneficial for overall consideration.
As we begin to gain momentum during our 15th year of service, we thought it best to implement a few changes. We’re switching some things around, and we’re excited for you to be a part of our monumental year. Be on the lookout, because there will be something new for everybody each week. We’re sending out news, tips, and trends to make both your day and life just a little easier.
Our first change: #AppraisalWeekly. Each week, we’re throwing our spotlight on a helpful book, app, podcast, or magazine that we feel you should check out. If you have any suggestions for an #AppraisalWeekly spotlight, please feel free to email us with your ideas.
Be sure to follow us on all social media for daily tips, facts, and overall relevant information.
Stay Tuned!
#AppraisalsWeekly
The (7L) The Seven Levels of Communication: Go From Relationships to Referrals
In this best-selling novel, Michael J. Maher chronicles the tale of a real estate agent who is forced to struggle through a down market. The agent, Rick Masters, manages to build a successful business during this time without advertising. The book showcases premium communication skills that undoubtedly come in handy in every industry, not simply real estate.
Appraisers do not consider any personal property when appraising. This is not an open house. So if you are worried about having your home professionally cleaned, don't. They will, however, ask about any upgrades, fixer uppers, re-finished work etc. It would help to have a list of all the improvements made, estimated cost and the time it took for the improvements to be completed prior to the appraisal. These updates reduce the age of the home which may help it appraise for a higher amount. Make sure that all renovation is complete prior to appraisal. If they are not completed prior to, it could possibly lower your appraisal value.
Do your research; be aware of the homes in your neighborhood and any homes similar to yours in the area. If the home similar to yours was recently sold, make sure to let your appraiser know. Also, if that home was sold but had extenuating circumstances, you will want to bring that to your appraiser’s attention as well.
Make all access in your home is available to your appraiser. They will need to be in every room of your home, appraisers should ask if they are able to open room doors. But to be safe, be sure to let everyone else in the home know of the appraisal so there will be no surprises.
If you do gave an HOA, the appraiser will need all their contact information.